This small flat-bottomed boat made of aluminum-magnesium alloy became a real legend of Soviet shipbuilding for internal water bodies. Kefale rowboat It was originally designed as a versatile vehicle for amateur fishermen and rescue services in calm water, and its simplicity and maintainability made it popular even decades after mass production ceased.
Many owners still successfully operate these vessels, often undergoing major upgrades to install outboard motors. In this article, we will discuss in detail the technical specifications, nuances of operation and ways to improve the performance of this legendary boat.
Understanding the design features of the hull will help you to correctly assess the condition of the boat you are buying from your hands or competently make a plan for its restoration. Aluminum AMGThe corrosion resistance, from which it is made, has excellent corrosion resistance, but requires careful attention to welds during long-term operation.
The hull is designed to provide maximum stability with minimal draught, which allows you to feel confident on the water even when fully loaded with a crew of three. loading capacity limited by the volume of buoyancy, and neglect the loading standards on such a vessel is categorically impossible.
Technical specifications and construction of the body
Construction mullet It is a flat-bottomed boat with a straight forehead and a vertical transom. aluminum-magnesium alloy The length of the body is 3.5 meters, which is the optimal size for transportation on the roof of a passenger car or in a trailer.
The 380 mm high boards provide a sufficient buoyancy reserve, but in high winds or excitement require caution from rowers. The bottom is reinforced with welded profiles, which increases the rigidity of the structure and protects the skin from impacts on the bottom when landing on shore. The thickness of the bottom and sides is 2 mm, which is the standard for light rowing boats of that period.
Inside the body are three transom banks that also act as a power kit, the front can is often used to install the paddle legs, and the aft serves as the basis for mounting. transom Zarifs (longitudinal blocks) along the sides of the boat serve for the convenience of mooring and rigging.
The main feature of the design is the combination of a minimum weight of 35 kg with the ability to carry a payload of up to 250 kg, which makes the boat ideal for long-distance casting in hard-to-reach places.
It is worth noting that factory design often assumed the presence of wooden linings on the cans, which over time require replacement due to rotting. Metal parts, especially in places of contact with water and oxygen, can be subjected to electrochemical corrosion if the integrity of the paint coating is not monitored.
Motorization: installation of an outboard motor
Although Mullet It was designed as a rowing boat, and most owners tend to use an outboard motor. The standard transom does not always withstand the vibrations and loads of an engine with a capacity of more than 2 hp, so it requires a competent modification. The installation of the engine radically changes the driving performance, allowing you to reach speeds of 10-12 km / h.
The engine needs to be reinforced to hold the engine securely, and often owners weld an extra profile or install a removable stainless steel structure. angularitySo that the boat does not burrow its nose or swell it excessively when going out for planing (although planing for Kefali is rare).
When installing the motor, it is critical to choose the right one. lower unit And the length of the lower unit so that the screw doesn't touch the bottom, but it doesn't get too high, which will cause air to be captured, and on flat-bottomed boats, the center of gravity shifts, and if the engine is not installed correctly, it can lead to dangerous rolling.
Many anglers prefer electric motors because they are quieter and do not require a fuel supply. Electric traction is ideal for quiet spinning wiring or fishing in areas where ICE is prohibited. bottom boats.
⚠️ Warning: When installing a motor with a power of more than 3 hp, be sure to check the condition of the welded seams of the transom. Vibration can lead to the formation of microcracks in aluminum, which is fraught with rapid flooding of the boat in deep water.
Comparison of models: Kefale, Crimea, Kazanka
In the market of used boats often there is a question of choosing between different models of the Soviet period. Mullet They are often compared to boats. Crimea or Kazanka-MEach of them has its advantages and disadvantages that are worth considering before buying.
Unlike Kazanka, Kefale has a narrower body and lower passenger capacity, but benefits in weight and transportability. Crimea, in turn, has a more seaworthy V-shaped bottom, but is much heavier and more difficult to manage on oars. Kefal is often preferred for narrow rivers and lakes with abundant vegetation.
Below is a comparative table of the main specifications of popular models:
| Parameter | Mullet | Crimea | Kazanka-M |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length, m | 3,50 | 3,90 | 4,00 |
| Width, m. | 1,05 | 1,35 | 1,60 |
| Weight, kg | 35 | 75 | 110 |
| Passengers | 2-3 | 3-4 | 4 |
So when you choose between these models, you should focus on the way you get to the water and the operating conditions, and if you have to drag a boat alone through the forest or you have to lower it from the sloping shore. Mullet It's unparalleled in convenience.
The Hidden Benefits of a Narrow Body
A narrow boat creates less water resistance when rowing, which allows for greater speed on oars with less effort, and is also easier to drag along the shore.
Repair and reinforcement of the structure DIY
As they age, aluminum boats require attention to welds and bottoms. Repair mullet yourself, you can do it with a minimum set of tools and metal skills, and most often you have to digest the transom or patch the holes.
Argon welding is the best way to fix holes, because it gives you the least thermal influence, and if you don't, you can use fiberglass reinforced epoxy compounds, but this is a temporary solution. Before applying any compounds, you need to clean the surface thoroughly to shine and degrease.
☑️ Checklist for repair preparations
Transcen reinforcement is a mandatory procedure for motorized versions. Use aluminum corners or strips at least 3-4 mm thick. Mount them through a hole with a kennel, using screws with a wide hat and sealant. Rivet In this case, it is less reliable than welding, but more available at home.
Don't forget about corrosion treatment. Aluminum oxidizes to form a protective film, but in places where welding and mechanical damage can go faster, using special primers for non-ferrous metals will extend the life of your boat for many years.
⚠️ Warning: Never use steel shavings or steel tools to strip aluminum. The remaining iron particles will cause focal corrosion, which quickly turns into a through hole.
Equipment for comfortable fishing
In order to fish on mullet It was not only efficient, but comfortable, and it had to be properly equipped, and it was Spartan, so the interior was a matter of the owner's own making, and the first thing to do was to take care of the soft seats.
Installing harundukes instead of hard jars will solve two problems: a soft seat and a place to store gear. Inside the harundukes you can place anchor line, spare oars, remixes and personal belongings. It is important that the lids of the harundukes open quickly and reliably fixed.
For ease of control of the boat on oars or when fishing in standing water will not be superfluous to install an anchor device. anchorAnd in the stern, it's a hold for the oars, so it frees up your hands and allows you to focus on the catch.
Use PVC rugs to floor the boat, and not only will they make the boat warmer and more enjoyable, they will also protect the aluminum bottom from scratches when moving gear and anchor.
Lighting equipment is also useful if you plan to fish at night, and battery-powered LED tapes will provide a safe way to navigate the boat and search for fallen items.
Security and storage rules
Safety on the water depends not only on the skills of the rower, but also on the technical condition of the vessel. case Pay special attention to the water lines and the places where the jars are attached.
When stored, the boat is best kept upside down under a canopy or indoors. Direct sunlight and precipitation accelerate the aging of the paintwork and can deform thin aluminum with temperature changes. In winter, snow should not get inside the hull.
Despite its apparent load capacity, exceeding the 250 kg limit (including the weight of people and the engine) makes the boat unstable and dangerous. Resilience The flat-slipper falls sharply when rolling, and it can be difficult to correct the situation.
⚠️ Warning: Always carry a scoop. Even the most sealed boat can draw water because of rain, waves from a passing boat or condensation. Having a scoop is a mandatory safety requirement.
Proper storage and regular inspection of the seams allow the operation of the aluminum boat Kefale for more than 30 years without major repairs to the hull.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum power of the motor for the boat Kefale?
The manufacturer did not provide for the installation of the engine, but practice shows that it is safe to use engines with a capacity of up to 3-4 hp At the same time, it is mandatory to install a full trans-insert and distribute the weight of passengers for balancing.
Can I seal the hole in Kefali with cold welding?
Yes, for temporary repairs or filling of small holes (up to 5 mm), you can use special epoxy compounds for aluminum (cold welding). However, for permanent and large damage, only argon welding or installing an aluminum patch on sealed rivets is required.
How many people can a boat Kefale normally accommodate?
Passport capacity is usually 2 people, but with calm water and proper weight distribution, it confidently carries three adults of average size.
Should I paint an aluminum boat?
You don't have to paint, because the oxide film protects the metal, but light paint (white, light gray) reduces the heat of the boat in the sun and improves the appearance. Use only specialized aluminum paints.